When our client discovered Greenhouse Court, a substantial Grade II listed country house near Stroud, they were immediately drawn to its character and setting. Dating back to the 17th century and extending to approximately 5,000 sq. ft., the property sits within extensive grounds and includes stables and ancillary outbuildings.
However, purchasing a historic home of this scale requires careful consideration. The client contacted Cornerstone Surveyors to carry out a RICS Level 3 Building Survey to assess the structural condition, identify significant defects, and provide clear guidance before the exchange of contracts.
For a complex heritage property, a standard survey would not have been sufficient. A level 3 building survey, often referred to as a level 3 home survey, is specifically designed for older, altered and listed buildings.
Constructed predominantly from traditional Cotswold limestone, with stone slate roofing, parapet gutters and original timber joinery, Greenhouse Court embodies the beauty and technical nuance of period construction.
Listed properties demand a different approach. Materials must be breathable, repairs must be sympathetic, and any alterations may require listed building consent. This is precisely why specialist listed building surveys are essential when purchasing a historic home.
Our inspection found the property to be generally well-maintained for its age, a positive starting point. Nevertheless, our level 3 survey identified several issues typical of period buildings that warranted attention.
Original timber windows and doors showed areas of decay. While largely repairable, we recommended prompt maintenance to prevent further deterioration and preserve historic fabric.
Localised defects were identified in the stone slate roof and associated lead work. Even minor failures in roofing elements can lead to water ingress, particularly in heritage structures.
We noted previous repairs using unsuitable modern materials. In traditional limestone buildings, non-breathable materials can trap moisture, accelerating stone decay and internal damp issues.
A blocked foul drainage system was identified and recommended for specialist investigation. Drainage issues in older rural properties can be complex and, if left unresolved, may cause wider problems.
None of these findings was unexpected in a 17th-century property. However, several required timely remedial works to safeguard the structure and prevent more significant future expenses.
When our client discovered Greenhouse Court, a substantial Grade II listed country house near Stroud, they were immediately drawn to its character and setting. Dating back to the 17th century and extending to approximately 5,000 sq. ft., the property sits within extensive grounds and includes stables and ancillary outbuildings.
However, purchasing a historic home of this scale requires careful consideration. The client contacted Cornerstone Surveyors to carry out a RICS Level 3 Building Survey to assess the structural condition, identify significant defects, and provide clear guidance before the exchange of contracts.
For a complex heritage property, a standard survey would not have been sufficient. A level 3 building survey, often referred to as a level 3 home survey, is specifically designed for older, altered and listed buildings.
Constructed predominantly from traditional Cotswold limestone, with stone slate roofing, parapet gutters and original timber joinery, Greenhouse Court embodies the beauty and technical nuance of period construction.
Listed properties demand a different approach. Materials must be breathable, repairs must be sympathetic, and any alterations may require listed building consent. This is precisely why specialist listed building surveys are essential when purchasing a historic home.
Our inspection found the property to be generally well-maintained for its age, a positive starting point. Nevertheless, our level 3 survey identified several issues typical of period buildings that warranted attention.
Original timber windows and doors showed areas of decay. While largely repairable, we recommended prompt maintenance to prevent further deterioration and preserve historic fabric.
Localised defects were identified in the stone slate roof and associated lead work. Even minor failures in roofing elements can lead to water ingress, particularly in heritage structures.
We noted previous repairs using unsuitable modern materials. In traditional limestone buildings, non-breathable materials can trap moisture, accelerating stone decay and internal damp issues.
A blocked foul drainage system was identified and recommended for specialist investigation. Drainage issues in older rural properties can be complex and, if left unresolved, may cause wider problems.
None of these findings was unexpected in a 17th-century property. However, several required timely remedial works to safeguard the structure and prevent more significant future expenses.
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Registered Address: C/O Ashford House, Dixons Green Road, Dudley, West Midlands, England, DY2 7DJ
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